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I am hoping you will be able to recommend something to help my husband. He has been taking duloxetine 60mg for chronic pain in his neck (to do with the vertebrae) for about three weeks, and is finding the side effects, particularly feeling restless in bed at night, quite debilitating. He has tried taking duloxetine several times before and each time he has stopped because of this side effect. However, it then isn't long until the pain in his neck returns with a vengeance. Is there something that you can recommend, to help with the restlessness and for him sleep at night?
There are numerous side effects associated with duloxetine including nausea, restlessness, insomnia, and others so this does not come as a surprise to me. I would suggest that your husband takes Cherry Night by Viridian Nutrition. This remedy in powder form contains magnesium to relax muscles and nerves, and in doing so may also alleviate some pain, as well as cherry extracts rich in melatonin which is the sleep hormone of the body. Cherry Night also contains glycine which is an amino acid that improves sleep quality and calms the brain.
I believe that it would be really beneficial for your husband to take Superior Joints daily. Superior Joints contains Natural Eggshell Membrane which has been clinically studied and found to have potent anti-inflammatory properties. Natural Eggshell Membrane contains two rare amino acids including proline which are thought to encourage healthy cartilage production. This supplement also contains hyaluronic acid to cushion the cartilage matrix in between bones, as well as turmeric and ginger to encourage circulation in order to remove the acids that cause pain and stiffness.
For the majority, pain relief is often within a month or earlier, and the supplement is safe to be taken on an ongoing basis or for as long as is necessary. This supplement is important for your husband because it means that hopefully he can start to gradually reduce the reliance on duloxetine which he can get approval from his GP on how to do this. It would also help to spray some Ancient Magnesium Oil Ultra twice a day in the neck area. This spray contains magnesium chloride to relax the nerves locally that send signals of pain, as well as MSM which provides local pain killing properties.
My 89-year-old Mum had a fall a few weeks ago, as she fell she knocked her head against the dustbin and since then she has had a noise in her ear, which she describes as a lot of insects buzzing around. The noise isn't constant but seems to be waking her up at night. We are at a loss as to what to do? Is this tinnitus or could this be something else? She has been checked over by her local GP, he looked inside the eardrum and said that it looked healthy. Is there a supplement or a treatment that might help?
I’m sorry to learn of your mother's head injury. Certainly the symptoms you are describing points to tinnitus, which is often intermittent and can appear after a head injury. I am glad that the ears have been checked although sometimes other effects can occur (like a delayed response), but usually within days rather than weeks. If other new symptoms appear then please have her medically reviewed quickly, but in the interim period I suggest she takes Plantago Drops.
Plantago Drops contain active compounds that can reach the middle and inner ear canal working to calm down any underlying inflammation. This inflammation affects the sensory fine hairs that send signals of the sounds to the brain that your mother is experiencing. Plantago Drops are safe to use with most medications, even for long term use.
I’m 66 and struggling with lichen sclerosis in the vaginal area and although I am using a steroid cream, I wondered if there were healthier options?
Lichen sclerosis is definitely of higher incidence in menopausal and post-menopausal women suggesting a link to hormonal decline, and perhaps genetics, but we still do not fully understand the causal factors. It is an autoimmune condition where chronic inflammation affects the genitals causing intense itching and burning, and white, thin fragile skin.
The use of curcumin supplements should be of some value since this herbal extract from turmeric powder works as a potent anti-inflammatory. I would also suggest that you use Topida Intimate Hygiene Spray alongside your steroid cream, or other topicals, which is a soothing spray used to control inflammation, itching and discomfort associated normally with vaginal infections but equally I do not see why this cannot be used for LS with a view to perhaps gradually reducing steroid cream use if you choose to do so.
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I've recently had my gallbladder removed and I was wondering if you could recommend any supplements that I may need.
Digestive problems after gallbladder removal are very common as the body has to cope with unrestricted flow of bile into the small intestine rather than stored releases from the gallbladder as one has a meal. This can result in diarrhoea, abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, and fat intolerance. Firstly, please take DoSe Milk Thistle Complex which contains the trio of liver cleansing and supporting herbs that enhance the production and flow of bile.
If diarrhoea is present, please consider taking TUDCA, which is a bile acid that reduces bile acid malabsorption problems that occur post-surgery. Stop a week after the diarrhoea has finished and gauge if needed again.
I am considering taking a turmeric curcumin supplement alongside Superior Joints, but understand from research that the capsule needs to contain MCT oil to be effective and I notice that Turmeric Curcumin C3 Complex doesn’t contain MCT. Can you advise?
Turmeric contains several active compounds called curcuminoids including the most studied ingredient, curcumin, which provide the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits associated with turmeric root. Turmeric root in powder, tablet, or capsule form is ill-absorbed by the body with on average 5% to 10% maximum being absorbed by the body. That is why many people use black pepper to enhance digestive enzymes increasing the absorption to 15% roughly, and MCT oil to increase absorption of turmeric (since it is fat soluble) allowing more curcumin to reach the bloodstream.
However, Turmeric Curcumin C3 Complex is totally different because it contains curcumin and two other water soluble actives that do not require oil to be absorbed into the bloodstream and so achieves significantly higher actives into the body several times greater than the two options mentioned. Curcumin C3 Complex has been featured in 285 publications with 114 clinical studies, making it the most researched curcumin ingredient so I would not recommend any other curcumin supplement especially when taken alongside Superior Joints.
Twice a year I suffer with an upper respiratory tract infection which results in cough, sore throat and red blotches on my neck, chest, abdomen and shoulders. These symptoms then turn into a very painful cough lasting about a week, which lingers for about three weeks. My GP doesn’t know the cause, other than a virus and as antibiotics can’t help, is there anything you recommend?
It is not uncommon to experience a rash when you have a viral infection, although this is not the usual virus that results in a cold. Some viruses affect both the respiratory tract and skin such as an adenovirus infection and the cough can linger for two to three weeks if the airways stay inflamed. Although supplements will not guarantee prevention, they can support the immune function and you should consider the core basic supplements for immunity which are vitamin D and probiotics.
Vitamin D deficiency is still very widespread in the adult population so I am not sure if you take a vitamin D supplement daily but the general recommendations are that a woman of average weight and height should take a minimum of 2000iu per day since this vitamin is involved in many processes within the body leading to suboptimal levels in the body. Please consider taking two sprays of Vitamin D 1000iu Oral Spray daily.
A large part of our immunity arises out of the gut. Almost 80% of the immune cells are located in the gut and they help to regulate systemic immune responses (as well as local responses) to differentiate between harmless bacteria and harmful bacteria or other pathogens. Please take Mega Probio at a dose of one capsule twice a day. Probiotics not only help the immune system but also enhance digestion, detoxification, enhancing energy by the manufacture of B-vitamins.
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I’ve been experiencing tingling and numbness in my toes for at least 18 months. Blood tests don’t show up anything abnormal and I’ve also been tested at the neurology clinic and results were ‘normal’. My GP told me to come back if it gets worse, but I feel that there must be something causing this tingling. I’m also experiencing slight loss of movement in my toes. I am 69, can you help please?
If blood tests and neurology are ‘normal’, then these feelings of numbness and slight loss of movement could be associated with possibly a circulatory issue and/or nutrient deficiencies. I would recommend taking Diosmin Plus, assuming that you are not taking blood-thinning medications. Diosmin Plus contains several herbs that enhance total body circulation including the lower limbs, so that the tissues are oxygenated and vital nutrients reach the whole body.
Included in the formulation is Diosmin, a flavonoid known to help with the elasticity of valves which ensure blood does not pool and moves around the body. By enhancing circulation, this supplement is also useful for other circulatory concerns associated with ageing, such as varicose veins. A possible deficiency of magnesium may exist since serum magnesium often looks normal despite lower levels in the cells. I would suggest taking Magnesium Complex, at a dose of one capsule daily with food, since magnesium relaxes muscles and nerves, and a deficiency can cause tingling, twitching and cramps.
I am unsure if your blood test showed a B12 deficiency because serum B12 can miss a functional deficiency. Vitamin B12 levels are often low in people aged 50 years and above since we lose a protein that transports vitamin B12 from the gut into the bloodstream. This is why taking tablets and capsules of vitamin B12 may be ineffective and in many cases even a diet rich in B12 such as red meat may not provide sufficient amounts. I suggest taking B12 Elite which provides this important vitamin in a lozenge form so that it is absorbed from the mouth directly into the bloodstream.
I had surgery on a fractured ankle recently. I had been taking liquid morphine, which I have now stopped, but still continue to take paracetamol every day to a greater or lesser extent. I am experiencing what I think is acid reflux/indigestion and wondered if you could suggest something to take other than Gaviscon.
Indigestion and symptoms of acid reflux are common side effects of morphine as it slows down the gastrointestinal tract and increases acidity, so a very good option to Gaviscon is Life Extension Esophacool. Esophacool Lozenges are unlike a conventional antacid. They contain calcium carbonate and DGL licorice which soothe the lining of the oesophagus without disturbing stomach acid production since the body needs stomach acids to break down food. Unfortunately people taking acid reducing medications often have nutrient deficiencies due to the improper breakdown of food. If further support is needed, then please take Centaurium Tincture to enhance digestive enzymes which break down food and help with symptoms of acid reflux as well as enhancing motility to prevent constipation.
My 26-year-old fit and healthy son has just been diagnosed with Peyronie’s Disease. Our GP has prescribed tadalafil 5 mg a day and 600 mg Vitamin E supplement. I was wondering if there was anything we could add to this to try and prevent further progression of the syndrome. My understanding is this condition usually affects older men and as you can imagine this diagnosis has been quite upsetting.
Often due to injury, Peyronie's disease can be very distressing especially in young men. Whilst Vitamin E thins the blood to allow flow, and also reduces inflammation and possibly collagen build up in the plaque, there are other natural remedies that would be worth taking alongside vitamin E notably Acetyl L-Carnitine used to reduce pain, prevent progression, and improve penile curvature. Biocare's Acetyl Carnitine and Alpha Lipoic Acid would be the supplement of choice.
I would also recommend Turmeric Curcumin C3 Complex. Inflammation is one of the key causes of collagen build-up and reducing inflammation should also be of value in preventing progression.
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I have recently been diagnosed as hypermobile and as I get older I have started to experience more joint pain. I am receiving physio to strengthen my ligaments to protect my joints, but I'm looking for supplements to help my joints and manage my pain levels.
Hypermobility is a condition where the joints can bend beyond the normal range of motion and it is associated with loose ligaments and/or genetic defects in collagen which is responsible for the strength, structure, and elasticity of ligaments and tendons.
Although we cannot change the underlying genetic structure of the collagen, we still need to provide the body with the best form of collagen to provide the amino acids for strengthening connective tissues and nerve pain. I would recommend that you take Collagen Tripeptide Complex which provides the smallest unit of collagen containing variants of three amino acids, which means that almost all of this is delivered to tissues unlike almost all collagen supplements which are larger with far lower levels of absorption.
As for any joint and muscle pain, please take Superior Joints at a dose of two capsules once daily preferably during the day. Superior Joints contains Natural Eggshell Membrane which has been part of the review by the NIH concluding that it does help to alleviate pain rapidly. This eggshell membrane also contains hydroxyproline and other amino acids that are known to help long term cartilage. In addition, Superior Joints contains hyaluronic acid to stabilise the cartilage matrix, cherry extracts to neutralise acids that cause pain and stiffness, ginger and a small amount of turmeric for their circulatory benefits in removing acids, and other vitamins known for their role in joint health.
You may also wish to consider spraying some Ancient Magnesium Oil Spray. This specific form of magnesium helps to relax muscles and nerves and when applied topically, works rapidly to provide relief from pain. The magnesium from the spray is also absorbed transdermally through the skin into the bloodstream and additionally MSM, a natural anti-inflammatory within the formulation, works to further provide pain relief.
Please could you recommend something I can take for IBS, which I have from time to time, especially first thing in the morning.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a very common debilitating gastrointestinal disorder that affects people in different ways. It is estimated that between 8% and 20% of the adult population are affected and typical symptoms include chronic abdominal pain, bloating, and varying bouts of constipation and diarrhoea.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome is termed a ‘functional disorder’. A functional disorder is a medical condition that impairs the normal function of the body where every part of the body looks completely normal under examination. We do not fully understand IBS since it is a very complex condition, but sufferers can exhibit a combination of different symptoms and signs such as abdominal bloating, constipation (IBS-C), diarrhoea (IBS-D) or alternating between both (IBS-A). You have not mentioned specific type of IBS so I am providing you with a good general regimen which helps many people with mild IBS whether suffering from diarrhoea or constipation.
One of the most important supplements to take for occasionalsymptoms of IBS is the use of a quality digestive enzyme supplement such as Digestive Enzyme Complex, take one capsule before or with a main meal. Digestive enzymes break down food efficiently helping to prevent stagnation or fermentation which can lead to toxin build-up and so inflammation.
More than 30 studies indicate that probiotic supplements may be helpful in the management of the symptoms of IBS such as bloating, flatulence, and may improve overall symptoms when taken daily. Mega Probio contains eight strains of acid resistant bacteria that can colonise the gut and perform their myriad of roles in gut health, immunity, digestion, detoxification, as well as in the production of energising B-vitamins. This dairy-free, wheat and gluten-free supplement works well for most inflammatory digestive concerns.
My 20-year-old son is an elite footballer and has been having trouble sleeping due to the demands of training several times a week and playing full 90 minute games. Can you recommend a product to help him relax and sleep?
Trouble sleeping is a relatively common occurrence is those who undertake high intensity exercise since this releases excess amounts of adrenaline and cortisol which act as stimulants causing alertness, and blocking the uptake of melatonin (sleep hormone) even if one is physically exhausted. I would suggest that your son takes Sleep Tight Plus, a supplement containing a blend of herbal sedatives and relaxants, as well as extracts of magnolia bark to reduce cortisol, magnesium to relax the body and cherry extracts which naturally contain small amounts of melatonin. Theanine in the formulation enhances alpha waves to relax the mind. I suggest starting with one capsule an hour before bedtime for a week or two to gauge if this dose is sufficient before considering taking two capsules at night.
I am also a great advocate for the use of aromatherapy mists for sleep, especially This Works Deep Sleep Pillow Spray. This is one of the few pillow sprays that contains a combination of oils that have been the subject of small studies showing improvements in sleep induction and quality.
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Following a recent eye infection, my optician has told me that I have dry eyes. He recommended Hycosan Eye Drops, but they seem too harsh for me and my eyes feel gritty and sore. Can you recommend an alternative?
Dry eyes are a common condition where the tears produced cannot provide sufficient lubrication for the eyes, resulting in watery eyes, burning, stinging, and discomfort. This is often because the tear film is compromised due to hormonal changes, ageing, dry environments, too much screen time, or an underlying condition. As far as eye drops are concerned, I prefer the use of Advanced Triple Action Drops since these drops have a lipid base from Sacha Inchi Oil that helps to provide longer term support for chronic dry eyes and other eye concerns.
Another possibility is the use of Vogel's Extra Moisturising Eye Drops which contain hyaluronic acid to add moisture and comfort the eyes, and Eyebright, an eye tonic revered for decades for its benefits for the eyes. Several studies indicate that for the majority, hormonal changes and ageing cause the reduction of tears produced and diminished quality of the tears too. It might also be prudent to consider taking a supplement Life Extension Tear Support capsules, as these work to support healthy and quality tear production, which helps to promote eye lubrication, helping to alleviate dry eyes.
My daughter had her first baby three months ago and is breast feeding. She is feeling anxious and depressed and has just been prescribed medication. Can you suggest supplements that will improve her mood before she starts taking the prescribed medications?
Post-partum anxiety is a common concern and since your daughter is breastfeeding, we are somewhat limited in the choice of supplements we can use but primarily she should take a post-natal multivitamin that works to help restore hormone levels as the imbalance in the female hormones triggers stress hormone release by the adrenals.
Zita West Revital Essence would be the one of choice suitable for helping hormonal balance which in turn should gradually reduce anxiety, provide better sleep, and other benefits. I would also recommend taking Australian flower remedies such as Calm & Relax which are generally regarded as safe to take whilst breastfeeding.
My husband recently had shingles which affected the left side of his face including his cheek, eye, forehead and into his hairline. Although the blisters have healed, his skin is still numb and he has nerve pain round his eye and forehead. He is taking B12, have you any other recommendations?
I am assuming that your husband was prescribed antivirals as this is a concern that can lead to postherpetic neuralgia which displays the classic signs of nerve pain and numbness. Supplements can help support this health issue, such as B12 and a specific type of magnesium. If your husband is taking just a B12 tablet, not sublingual form or lozenge form, may I suggest he takes bioactive forms of vitamin B12 found in the supplement B12 Elite. This provides two forms of B12 that are absorbed from under the tongue into the bloodstream directly. Taking B12 tablets may not provide sufficient B12 as we lose levels of a protein called intrinsic factor that transports B12 from the gut into the bloodstream. (Life Extension, B12 Elite, £14)
Since your husband is experiencing nerve pain, it would also be prudent for him to take Neuro-Mag. This supplement contains a very specific magnesium compound, magnesium L-threonate, that has been shown to enter the spinal cord and then into the nervous system helping to calm the nerves that send signals of pain. Adequate levels of magnesium are known to help nerve health, prevent nerve damage and manage nerve pain, whilst inadequate levels are known to be linked to neuropathy.
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What would you recommend to ease sciatic nerve pain down the back of the legs please?
As I am sure you are aware, sciatica is a type of pain that starts in your back and then runs down the leg. The sciatic nerve gets inflamed sending signals of pain to the brain which is often worsens on awkward movements. I would suggest the following regimen and this should mean less reliance on anti-inflammatories and painkillers which are often prescribed.
Magnolia extracts are potent muscle and nerve relaxants help to relax muscles and nerves so I would recommend that you take Magnolia Rhodiola Complex at a dose of one capsule twice a day. This supplement is more potent in its muscle and nerve relaxing properties than magnesium, a popular recommendation for a milder form of sciatica.
You might also wish to consider the topical use of a magnesium oil spray which will work locally to relax the nerves. Ancient Magnesium Oil Ultra Spray contains magnesium chloride which works locally to relax the sciatic nerve and then gets absorbed into the bloodstream to work from within the body too. Magnesium also helps to relax the body and so helps sleep quality too.
I am 42 and having tests for peri-menopause. My periods are erratic which affects my mood, I'm constantly tired and get colds regularly and I've started having trouble sleeping, which is affecting everything else. I've recently had a blood test which came back fine, however last year my iron levels were borderline. Can you help?
You are certainly displaying all the signs associated with low female hormones causing adrenal stress, even if your tests have come back as 'normal'. This is because hormonal tests are geared for a significant swing in hormone levels whereas even small changes make a huge impact on the body. The first glands that get affected due to lower female hormone levels are the adrenals which are responsible for maintaining healthy stress hormone levels, energy production and other functions.
So when the female hormones are lower, usually from age 35 onwards, there are slight effects which most women experience but usually do not associate with declining female hormones. These include lower energy since the adrenals are producing stress hormones, so they produce less energising hormones, of course mood changes due to increased stress hormones, sleep disturbances because stress hormones block melatonin uptake and other effects.
Firstly, please take Sage Complex capsules. This should now be your ongoing supplement helping to address and mitigate problems with declining female hormone levels by providing plant oestrogens. Oestrogen protects the bones, joints, skin, heart, and other structures, and declining oestrogen is linked to concerns associated with these glands and structures.
Low female hormones also affect immunity again through the cortisol connection due to stress. Higher stress levels, whether physical or hormonal, lower immunity making us more susceptible to colds and infections. Please take Daily Immunity at a dose of one capsule twice a day for one month. Please also take Sleep Tight Plus, a supplement that contains traditional herbal hypnotics and sedatives, as well as cortisol reducing herbs to help restful sleep as well as reducing stress hormone levels when taken every night.
I have Lichen Sclerosis and hypothyroidism. I take thyroxine, is there anything you can recommend?
There is a link between Lichen Sclerosis (LS) and hypothyroidism as it appears that they both may be affected by T-cells attacking healthy tissue. Since it is an inflammatory concern, I would suggest taking Turmeric Curcumin C3 Complex which contains three of the most potent anti-inflammatory compounds found in turmeric root which also provide antioxidant properties. Please take this at least three hours away from any medication, especially thyroxine, which I assume you take first thing in the morning with water.
Topically, Basix Skin Defence Cream may be as efficient as steroidal creams in alleviating the symptoms, but of course it does not thin the skin which is invaluable because often steroid creams work really well and when you stop the lesion comes back even worse than before.
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A recent pelvic and transvaginal scan has shown calcified cervical fibroids and it would seem these are the cause of the frequent need to pass urine and the difficulty in emptying the bladder completely. Can you suggest anything that could ease these symptoms?
As I am sure you are aware, calcified cervical fibroids are fibroids that have hardened due to the deposition of calcium and if they are located near the cervix, then they press on the bladder which results in frequent urination. Once calcified, these cannot be reversed however, you can manage or ease the symptoms by reducing bladder pressure by taking Magnesium Complex which contains several forms of magnesium including magnesium L-threonate which is known to enter the nervous system to relax nerves and muscles. Please consider taking Dandelion Root to help increase the volume of urine being evacuated.
My husband was attacked on the street and was hit with boulder in the face at a very close proximity. He has fractures and breaks including the forehead orbital socket, cheek and nasal bones and has his eyebrow stitched together. What do you suggest topically and orally to help heal the skin?
I am sorry to learn about your husband's attack and may I please suggest that he uses Sheald Recovery Balm to all the areas where there are stitches to ensure a quicker recovery of skin such as the eyebrow area, but please ensure that this does not get into the eye. On larger areas, Calendula Cream would be a good option as it calms localised inflammation which hinders the healing processes.
Vitamin C is highly effective to speed up the healing processes in skin by reducing inflammation, strengthening capillary walls of blood vessels, and by enhancing collagen. It promotes the migration of specific cells which are crucial for tissue healing. I suggest he takes Liposomal Vitamin C at a dose of one teaspoon daily which provides 1000 mg of highly bioavailable vitamin C.
Do you have any advice to help resolve a Dupuyren nodule in the centre of my palm which is rather painful?
The cause of Dupuytren's disease does not remain fully understood, however we know that the condition occurs most likely after the age of 50 and runs in families. It gets progressively worse, but at a slow rate. What we do believe is that these thick bands that restrict movement and pull the fingers towards the palm of the hand arise possibly due to inflammation of the tissues that cause these tissues to thicken.
Treatment of Dupuytren's involves needling to puncture and break the cords of tissue that are pulling the finger towards the palm, steroid injections to calm down inflammation and/or an enzyme called Collagenase injected locally to break down the collagen fibres that form part of this thickened band of tissue. I suggest that you consider taking Turmeric Curcumin C3 Complex to ensure that inflammation is kept to a minimum in order to slow down any progression, especially if there is no contracture, and to also help alleviate pain. Hand exercises, deep tissue massage, and heat treatment might be valuable, such as using a Hot and Cold Wrap.
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I have been diagnosed with ‘wear and tear’ arthritis on my big toes. I'm 49 and otherwise healthy. My GP has suggested glucosamine, but I would be grateful for your recommendation.
Osteoarthritis, which occurs due to the wear and tear of the cartilage between joint tissues, causes pain and stiffness as acids are released due to the degradation. Please take Superior Joints at a dose of two capsules ONCE daily.
Superior Joints contains Natural Eggshell Membrane which has been clinically studied and found to have potent anti-inflammatory properties, helping to alleviate pain but also encouraging the healing of joint tissues. Natural Eggshell Membrane contains several amino acids, including proline and hydroxyproline, as well as naturally occurring glycosaminoglycans such as glucosamine, which are thought to encourage healthy cartilage production, as well as being vital for tendons and ligaments.
Superior Joints also contains tart cherries to remove acids which cause pain, degradation and stiffness, as well as hyaluronic acid to cushion the cartilage matrix in between joint tissues. Turmeric is added in a small amount to enhance circulation and for its anti-inflammatory properties. The use of this supplement may also help protect all joints from further degradation and may even enhance the stability of joint tissues over time.
You might also wish to consider the topical use of a magnesium oil spray which will work locally to relax the nerves. Ancient Magnesium Oil Ultra Spray contains magnesium chloride which works locally to relax the nerves that send signals of pain, and gets absorbed from the skin into the bloodstream to work from within the body too. Magnesium also helps to relax the body and so helps sleep quality too.
Which is the best collagen supplement for thinning of skin, particularly in the lower legs and feet?
Skin is composed primarily of Type I Collagen which makes up 90% of the collagen in the body. Skin also contains Type III Collagen which is important for skin elasticity. This would suggest that taking a supplement containing these two forms of collagen would be optimal. but this is not the case. Almost all collagen supplements containing hydrolysed collagen peptides which are between 30 and 100 amino acid chains. This means that these molecules or peptides, as they are often referred to, have limited absorption from the gut into the bloodstream.
Collagen Tripeptide Complex provides chains of only 3 amino acids derived from marine collagen which means that this type of collagen is absorbed very efficiently to provide structural strength to skin, and of course it provides multiple other benefits.
A very good friend of mine has vulva lichen planus which is very painful at times. Is there anything you would recommend please?
Vulvar lichen planus is an inflammatory condition of unknown cause, though it is thought that this may be an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the healthy cells of the vulvar skin. I would recommend Turmeric Curcumin C3 Complex which provides three of the most potent soft tissue anti-inflammatory compounds found in turmeric root to help alleviate pain. This should be taken on a one-a-day basis or at sudden onset because turmeric reduces inflammatory compounds in the body, providing multiple benefits such as antioxidant protection.
Because most people consider this to be an autoimmune disorder, it would be wise to take a vitamin D3 supplement since vitamin D deficiencies are very widespread in the adult population and a deficiency of this can cause the immune system to dysfunction. This should be taken at a dose 2000iu of vitamin D3 every day using a sublingual form such as B Vitamin D 1000iu Oral Spray, spraying two sprays inside the cheeks once a day.
Finally, I would suggest taking colloidal oatmeal baths daily, as soaking in oatmeal powder helps to soothe irritation and after bathing, I would recommend Organic Aloe Vera Gel to help soothe and heal the tissues.
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I fear that I may be showing early signs of rhinophyma. Please could you suggest any products or supplements which may be of help?
Rhinophyma is a disfiguring skin condition of the nose that causes the nose to become red, large, bulbous, and bumpy due to the overgrowth of sebaceous glands and connective tissues. There is often a link to rosacea. We do not fully understand the causes but logically, there must be some form of inflammation causing this. Aside from surgical intervention, in the early stages, retinoids can prove to be effective such as Granactive Retinoid Serum to be used every night after a few weeks of using on alternate nights.
I would also consider taking Turmeric Curcumin C3 Complex which provides potent anti-inflammatory support as well as blood cleansing benefits, in case there are metabolites in the body that may be the cause.
I have been diagnosed with glaucoma. Can you advise on any treatments or protocols?
Glaucoma is a set of eye conditions that leads to the damage of the optic nerve resulting in eventual sight loss. The most common cause is high pressure in the eye due to fluid build-up which damages the sensitive optic nerve. I would recommend two supplements to be used alongside Latanoprost eye drops (which I am assuming have been prescribed for glaucoma) as I consider this needs addressing promptly.
There are a number of causes for elevated blood pressure in the eye but primarily it is associated with an abnormality in the eye's drainage system which can cause fluid build-up that leads to pressure build-up in the eye that can lead to damage to the optic nerve. The supplement Eye Pressure Support contains a patented extract from Bilberries and Pycnogenol. A study using these extracts in Japanese patients confirmed that taking these extracts reduced intra-ocular pressure.
It has been suggested that bilberry extracts offer a number of protective effects including displaying potent antioxidant properties which may provide some protection against macular degeneration, cataracts and glaucoma. Pycnogenol enhances circulation due to its mild thinning effects to make the flow of all fluids easier, hopefully maintaining healthy blood pressure. Both of these nutrients display powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
The second supplement I would suggest is NAD+ Generator. Vitamin B3 shows promise for glaucoma by enhancing levels of NAD+ in damaged optic nerve cells potentially slowing vision loss with early human trials indicating reduced deterioration. But the dosages of Vitamin B3 need to be so high to get any NAD+ generated in the body and the side effects can include dizziness, headaches, and potentially liver injury. There is no concern in taking NAD+ Generator which contains Vitamin B3 and other nutrients that work in synergy to increase NAD+ levels in the body at therapeutic levels between four and eight weeks.
Please can you help as my bladder goes into overdrive during the night. I do tend to fall back to sleep after each interruption, but would appreciate your advice.
An overactive or sensitive bladder at night, nocturia, may occur due to hormonal changes or an imbalance that can lead to the weakening or anatomical changes of the tight band of muscles that hold urine in the bladder. Aside from these changes, this symptom may also be due to muscles of the bladder contracting involuntarily due to the disruption of signals between the brain and the bladder causing muscles to contract.
I would recommend taking Organic Bladder Support with Angelica as this contains the water soluble fraction of pumpkin seed extract together, with Angelica extract, which has been the subject of a few studies indicating its ability to help muscle tone.
I would also recommend taking a magnesium supplement containing magnesium glycinate and magnesium L-threonate such as Magnesium Complex. Both these magnesium compounds are helpful for muscle relaxation which helps prevent bladder spasms that lead to nocturia. Additionally, magnesium L-threonate has been shown to enter the nerve in the brain through the spinal cord and may be particularly helpful for reducing these spasms aside from supporting sleep quality. Take one capsule with your last meal of the day or preferably an hour before bedtime every night.
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I am 63 and have recently put on weight and have seen various articles about cortisol as a cause. Can you recommend a product to take to help?
Weight gain, especially around the midriff area, is relatively common as female hormones decline or due to ongoing stress because the decline in female hormones and stress has an impact on every single hormonal gland in the body. This decline causes the adrenals to produce more stress hormones, which cause the thyroid to produce less thyroid hormones, so weight gain can be a concern. Additionally, the pancreas is affected causing greater insulin release which is fine up to a point. Insulin, when in great excess, is the fat depositing hormone of the body and since the fat cells are concentrated around the stomach, this leads to midriff weight gain being more apparent.
I would suggest taking Magnolia Phellodendron Complex to help reduce excess cortisol that leads to copious production of insulin, closely linked to weight gain and the accumulation of visceral fat around the midriff. Please note that whilst this supplement reduces cortisol quickly, a concerted approach to diet and exercise will help to shed the weight in addition to taking this supplement.
I have had Hallux Limitus in my big toe for years, what supplements would you recommend aside from HA and Superior Joints which I already take.
Hallux Limitus is an early form of osteoarthritis caused by wear and tear. This wear and tear causes the release of acidic compounds, such as uric acid, that cause pain, stiffness, and of course inflammation. May I suggest that you take Life Extension Uric Acid Control to remove these acids which cause pain and reduced mobility. I would also recommend that you take a quality fish oil since fish oils not only reduce inflammation in the body but provide multiple benefits for the whole body too. Bare Biology Life and Soul Omega-3 Fish Oil capsules provide high strengths of essential fatty acids from clean marine fish body and not liver oils which are liable to contain toxins.
Topically, use Ancient Magnesium Oil Ultra to relax the nerves that send signals of pain and to relax any tendons in the area.
My daughter has suddenly started get red-faced after a few sips of vodka with juice, she is a social drinker at her university and she really doesn’t drink that much. She is also Coeliac so any help would be amazing.
Getting a red face after a few sips of alcohol is a common effect of alcohol flush reaction. It is a metabolic issue with how the body breaks down alcohol which is broken down into an intermediate compound called acetaldehyde, which is then further broken down into non-toxic compounds by specific enzymes. If these enzymes are low, alcohol flush reactions become prominent.
More than cosmetic, facial flushing increases risks for other concerns so I would suggest taking Life Extension Fast C and Bio-Quercetin Phytosome, a fast acting vitamin C supplement with quercetin which has been shown in some studies to reduce facial redness when taken a few hours before alcohol. Obviously, this is not meant to encourage drinking more alcohol, so your daughter needs to ensure she does limit alcohol intake. Other helpful strategies also involve eating some food before drinking, drinking water in between alcoholic drinks, and avoiding drinks with high levels of histamine such as red wine.
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My 18-year-old daughter has recently been in and out of hospital with panic attacks and high heart rate which is now being controlled by propanediol. The doctors have now said it is linked to her having goiter, although all her bloods along with thyroid came back clear. Can you please recommend any supplements that she can take to support her thyroid? She is struggling with fatigue as well and aches and pains.
Hyperthyroidism is certainly a cause for panic attacks and a racing heart. People with hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid, should avoid iodine but selenium supplements have been found to be useful in autoimmune diseases of the thyroid gland and there is a strong connection that a goiter is autoimmune, although not exclusively. I suggest taking Super Selenium Complex at a dose of one capsule daily.
I had sinus surgery in November 2025; I have chronic rhinitis and I use NeilMed to rinse my sinus twice a day. Would a Salt Pipe help further to reduce the mucus build up?
Cisca Salt Pipe would be beneficial for chronic rhinitis because of the ability of tiny salt particles to heal inflamed tissues and to reduce the swelling of the nasal lining. Additionally, salt particles attract water into the airways helping to thin mucus easing its expulsion whilst also displaying mild antibacterial properties that may prevent sinus infections. These multiple benefits should help to further support this health concern.
For the majority, rhinitis is associated with allergic reactions, irritants to chemicals and pollutants, or they may be due to non-allergic concerns such as hormonal changes, structural issues such as a deviated septum, or certain medications. If you suspect allergic reactions to pet dander, irritants, smoke, perfumes, medications and other factors, then please consider taking Aller-DMG tablets to reduce the histamine overload that is inflammatory, causing excess mucus to be released.
I am looking for some help on the difference between straight Nicotinamide Riboside and NAD+ and which would be better for MS?
Increasingly, people are understanding the importance of NAD+ and its protective role in supporting all our glands and providing energy levels to them in order for them to carry out their role at optimal level. Since NAD+ is an unstable molecule, supplements with this compound can simply not deliver sufficient amounts which has resulted in a variety of compounds called precursors of NAD+ to try and raise levels of this longevity nutrient in the body. These precursors include NMN, NADH, and NR (Nicotinamde Riboside).
Nicotinamide Ribose firstly needs to be absorbed efficiently and then broken down into nicotinamide and riboside before the body uses this to make NAD+. which can be a compromising process. NAD+ Generator contains a proprietary studied extract, Riagev, which contains nicotinamide ascorbate and ribose shown to enhance NAD+ levels substantially within a month, and more with long term use. For this reason alone, I would recommend NAD+ Generator since NAD+ shows promise in the management of MS by reducing nerve inflammation, supporting the energy centres, and improving nerve repair.
